The Saturnia thermal hot springs are one of Italy’s best-kept secrets and one of our favorite things to do. These silky blue water springs are spread across different levels, heated by the nearby volcano. A small but powerful stream keeps the water flowing down all levels, giving the pools a constant temperature of 37 degrees. We’ve put together everything you need to know about visiting the springs, including how to get there and what to bring.
About Saturnia, Tuscany
During our trip to Tuscany, Italy, we visited the beautiful spa town of Saturnia. Often thought to be a part of the nearby spa resort, the Saturnia hot springs in Tuscany are actually their own thing and completely FREE to visit 24/7, 365 days a year.
How to Visit the Saturnia Hot Springs in Tuscany
The hot springs lie strategically between Siena (2 hours) and Rome (3 hours), making them a perfect stop to add to your Tuscany road trip. We rented a car so we could drive there ourselves, and spent the night at one of the BnBs near the hot springs.
We recommend to rent a car in Italy through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
It’s one of our favorite memories from our road trip, as we visited around 6:15 AM when there were very few other people. The baths are most peaceful at sunrise or sunset. However, the relaxing sound of the streaming water will muffle most of the talking that you would normally hear around you.
Also great to visit: Elsa Trail and Diborrato Waterfall in Tuscany
Next to the hot spring lies a parking area that’s also open the entire day. UPDATE: The parking has been moved to a nearby location indicated with signs (Here’s the exact location).
Why Do the Hot Springs Smell?
When you arrive at the Tuscany thermal hot springs, you’ll quickly notice the sulfur smell, which is a small drawback. This is due to its natural heating process. Some days it’s worse than others, but the water is said to be healing and good for the body. We definitely felt new after visiting!
What to Bring to the Hot Springs in Tuscany
We truly think a swim in the Saturnia hot springs is a must on any 2-week trip through Italy. Some things to keep in mind are:
- Bring a towel and drinking water (to stay hydrated!);
- Change into your bathing suit in your hotel or car – there are no changing facilities here;
- Wear water shoes if you have sensitive feet (there are small pebbles on the spring’s floor);
- It’s completely free to enjoy the hot springs in Tuscany! We really enjoyed soaking here for a few hours;
- Take your garbage with you; leave the hot springs cleaner than you found them.
Where to Stay in Saturnia
There are a handful of good hotels and guesthouses in the area. We stayed at B&B 8380, which is only a 5-minute walk from the thermal hot springs. The same goes for the Spa and Golf Resort. It’s best to choose accommodation in either Saturnia or Montemerano.
We find Montemerano to be one of the most beautiful little villages in Italy and a great place to have dinner. You can read more about it in our Tuscany road trip guide.
Best Time to Visit Saturnia
We visited very early in the morning during our April trip (around 6:15 AM). The earlier you go, the more peaceful it is here. Plus, you can then watch the sun rise above the pools – bliss!
- Best season to go: spring or fall.
- Best time: Before 7 AM.
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How far is the walk from the parking area to the springs? I’m no spring chicken but if not too challenging would love the experience. Rome to Florence Nov 2 this year !
Hi! The parking is just a couple meters away, nothing crazy! Enjoy your time in Italy!